Several top college football players have transferred to new schools, primarily following their former coaches. This trend has illustrated how strong coach-player relationships can influence players’ decisions.
Transfers Following Coaches
Eric Morris, formerly the head coach at North Texas, was named head coach at Oklahoma State. Morris brought along 21 players from North Texas, including Drew Mestemaker. Mestemaker was a standout, throwing for 4,379 yards last season. He expressed his faith in Morris, stating that Morris played a crucial role in his decision to transfer.
Similarly, John Henry Daley moved to Michigan after accumulating 11½ sacks at Utah. His former coach, Kyle Whittingham, also moved to Michigan. Daley noted the discipline and work ethic Whittingham instills in teams as significant influences on his decision.
Success Stories
Matt Campbell, who transitioned from coaching at Iowa State to Penn State, has recruited around two dozen former players from Iowa State. This list includes quarterback Rocco Becht. Becht threw for 9,274 yards with 64 touchdowns and only 27 interceptions during his tenure at Iowa State as a starter. He emphasized his relationship with Campbell and existing team members as key reasons for his transfer.
The success of Indiana’s football team underlines the potential benefits of this trend. Curt Cignetti led Indiana’s transformation, partially thanks to the 13 former James Madison players who joined him. Indiana’s team achieved a College Football Playoff berth and secured the national title last season.
Key Transfers to Watch
Transfers continue beyond following coaches. These players are worth noting this season:
- Texas WR Cam Coleman (Auburn): Coleman was ranked the nation’s No. 3 prospect in his high school class. With 93 receptions for 1,306 yards and 13 touchdowns at Auburn, he’s set to make an impact as he aligns with Arch Manning at Texas.
- Indiana QB Josh Hoover (TCU): Hoover, succeeding Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza, transferred to Indiana after three years at TCU. He brings with him 9,629 passing yards and 71 touchdowns.
- LSU QB Sam Leavitt (Arizona State): Leavitt has a strong record, with 4,652 passing yards and 36 touchdowns. Known for his mobility, he adds 816 rushing yards and 10 rushing touchdowns to his credentials.
- Miami QB Darian Mensah (Duke): Mensah has played for Tulane and Duke, exhibiting consistency with a 66.5% career completion rate. He aims to continue this performance at Miami.
- Oregon S Koi Perich (Minnesota): Perich was an AP All-Big Ten selection. Versatile in defensive and special teams roles, he expects to excel at Oregon.
- BYU LB Cade Uluave (California): Uluave earned accolades as a prolific tackler with 237 career tackles at Cal. He’s anticipated to strengthen BYU’s defense significantly.